27-12-2024 (OSLO) A tragic incident unfolded near the scenic Raftsundet strait in northern Norway yesterday when a tour bus carrying international visitors veered off the road and partially submerged in a lake, claiming three lives and leaving four others injured in treacherous weather conditions.
The ill-fated vehicle, which was transporting tourists from eight different nations, met with disaster amid strong wind gusts that have been battering the region. The incident occurred near the popular Lofoten archipelago, a renowned winter destination for aurora borealis enthusiasts.
Norwegian authorities confirmed that the bus was carrying passengers from diverse nationalities, including visitors from China, France, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore and South Sudan. In total, 58 individuals were affected by the incident.
Emergency services mounted a challenging rescue operation hampered by adverse weather conditions. While most evacuees were safely transported to a nearby school for immediate assistance, three critically injured passengers required helicopter transport to hospital.
Chief Police Officer Bent Are Eilertsen of the Nordland Police District told NTB news agency that establishing contact with victims’ families has proven particularly challenging due to incomplete passenger manifests and the international nature of the group.
“Our immediate focus remains on providing care for the injured,” Eilertsen stated. “A thorough investigation will be launched to determine the precise circumstances that led to this tragic incident.”
The Raftsundet strait, which separates the stunning Lofoten archipelago from mainland Norway, typically draws substantial tourist traffic during winter months as visitors flock to witness the spectacular northern lights displays. However, the region’s unpredictable weather patterns can pose significant challenges for travellers and transport operators alike.
Local authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the incident, with emergency services working diligently despite the demanding weather conditions that persist in the area.
